Cytomegalovirus, DNA by PCR, Quantitative (Viral Load)

Test Code

CMVAL

Alias/See Also

CMV

CPT Codes
87497

Includes

IU/mL
Log (IU/mL)

Preferred Specimen

2 mL Plasma collected in EDTA (lavender top) tube

Minimum Volume

0.900 mL Plasma
Note: minimum volume does not allow for repeat testing

Other Acceptable Specimens

Plasma collected in EDTA gel separator (pearl top) EDTA

Instructions

Centrifuge for complete separation of plasma and red cells. Aliquot (transfer) plasma into a standard transport tube. Refrigerate until tested.

Transport Container

Standard transport tube

Transport Temperature

Refrigerated

Specimen Stability

2-8°C for 5 days, Whole Blood or Plasma
-20°C, Frozen, Plasma

Reject Criteria (Eg, hemolysis? Lipemia? Thaw/Other?)

The following conditions will result in sample rejection:

Quantity not sufficient
Samples collected in any heparin tube

Methodology
PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction)

FDA Status
Approved

Setup Schedule

Monday & Thursday only

Report Available

Report available within 24 hours after testing.

Limitations

Due to the potential for variability in CMV viral load measurements across different CMV assays, it is recommended that the same device be used for the quantitation of CMV viral load when managing CMV infection in individual patients.

Reference Range

30 - 100,000,000 IU/mL or 1.48 - 8.00 log (IU/mL)

Clinical Significance

This assay is intended for use as an aid in the management of solid organ transplant and hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) patients who have been diagnosed with CMV disease and are undergoing antiviral therapy.

Performed By
Alverno Laboratories

Performing Laboratory
Alverno Central Lab
NIMAM (Alinity m)

Last Updated: April 30, 2026

The CPT Codes provided in this document are based on AMA guidelines and are for informational purposes only. CPT coding is the sole responsibility of the billing party. Please direct any questions regarding coding to the payor being billed. Any Profile/panel component may be ordered separately. Reflex tests are performed at an additional charge.